As the glare of a too bright light blinds the eyes to the ditch across one's path, so the brilliancy of their surroundings blinded the eyes of his guests to the meaning of that horrid figure in the seat of highest honor.

But rich foods and rare wines soon loose the tongues that chatter the thoughts of those who do not think.

As the glasses were filled and refilled again, the scene took color from the sparkling goblets.
Voices were raised to a higher pitch.

Shrill or boisterous laughter rang out, as jest and story went the rounds.

It was Mrs.Taine, now, rather than her husband, who dominated the scene.